Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Substance Use Disorders by University Students: A Review of Literature

Abstract

Background: This is a systematic review of literature describing the knowledge of substance use disorders (SUDs) by university students and determines their attitude and practices towards SUDs. It compares university students in different countries.Methods: The author conducted a systematic review of selected studies on SUDs conducted among university students and published between 2014 and 2017. An extensive search of literature was performed from 13th to 17th November, 2017 using Ovid interface to search MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, RESEARCH-Open Access for indexed journals in the subject area. The study author conducted this systematic review on the subject from journals availed online.Results: Findings of nine articles were included in this review. The included articles assessed university students at various academic years and programmes. The SUDs included alcohol use disorder, nicotine dependence, legal, illegal drugs dependence and pharmaceutical drug dependence.Conclusions: The findings from the reviewed studies indicate awareness by university students on substance use disorders. However, there is need for enhanced awareness and education programmes for university students on SUDs aimed at producing a positive impact on their practices, attitudes and knowledge on this subject.